Police: Man drove drunk, ran down 2 bicyclists

Murray • Driver acknowledged hitting riders, driving under the influence.

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A 23-year-old man was behind bars Friday after he was alleged to have drunkenly run down two bicyclists, critically injuring one and leaving the other in serious condition.

Michael James Saenz was booked into Salt Lake County jail on suspicion of one third-degree felony count of DUI causing serious bodily injury and one class C misdemeanor count of operating a motor vehicle near a prohibited area, in this case a bicycle zone. He was initially being held on $810 bail pending court proceedings.

According to an arrest fact sheet filed with the jail by Murray police Officer Troy Peterson, Saenz was witnessed striking the bicyclists as he was driving southbound on 700 East at 4500 South in Murray about 1:30 a.m. Friday. The bicyclists were riding on the side of the road.

Police said one victim suffered severe head injuries while the second rider's injuries were not considered life-threatening. Both were taken to Intermountain Medical Center.

Earlier reports indicated the critically injured rider had died, but Friday afternoon police said they had not confirmed that.

Peterson wrote that Saenz acknowledged striking the riders and driving while under the influence of alcohol.

Police did not immediately release the names of the two riders.

remims@sltrib.com